Page 298 - RUICHSS 2023 Proceeding

University of Ruhuna ISSN: 2706-0063
Matara, Sri Lanka

During the round table discussion and surveys with university academic staff

members, they emphasised the distinct advantages of online teaching,
particularly for students with disabilities. The unparalleled flexibility of online

platforms stands out. For individuals with mobility challenges, including

wheelchair users or those contending with chronic illnesses, traditional
education poses significant barriers. Activities such as commuting, navigating

steep staircases, or merely transitioning between campus buildings can be
exhausting or even insurmountable. The staff unanimously agreed that online

learning effectively mitigates many of these physical barriers, providing

students with a virtual space to access quality education irrespective of their
physical circumstances.

Visually impaired students have unique benefits in the online domain.

Inclusivity-focused platforms offer tools like adjustable text sizes, screen
readers, and contrast settings. Some staff members noted utilizing these

technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic for their instruction. For

example, a student with macular degeneration can adjust screen settings to
enhance readability and comprehension. Additionally, the auditory offerings

of online learning, including podcasts, audiobooks, and voice notes, can assist
those struggling with text-dense content. This perspective resonated strongly

among the interviewed staff, who acknowledged the potential of diverse,

multimedia-rich content tailored to distinct learning preferences. Nonetheless,
all members concurred on the pressing need for more sophisticated software

and tools in Sri Lankan Universities, aiming to bolster the teaching and
learning experience.

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